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OSHA releases new rules to improve worker safety

Falls remain a consistent cause of worker injuries and fatalities. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is tasked with studying workplace safety and implementing rules to curb injuries and fatalities. A rash of regulations from 1950 to modern times has significantly improved worker safety. In furtherance of that goal, OSHA is releasing new rules to prevent more falls from the same level as well as heights.

The new rule applies to a variety of workers from painters to warehouse employees. The rule, however, does not change safety standards for agricultural or construction workers.

The standard utilizes best practices from a variety of industries, updates in technology, and cost-benefit analysis to improve safety while not imposing unreasonable burdens on employers. OSHA calculates that these new rules will prevent 5,842 injuries and 29 fatalities a year.

Furthermore, the rule benefits employers by introducing flexibility. Under the old rule, employers were required to use only guardrails as the primary fall-prevention technology. The new rule allows employers to choose from any accepted fall protection system that the employer believes will work best for their particular situation. Additionally, employers can even use non-conventional systems in certain designated situations.

Were you injured in a workplace accident? If so, you should consider calling an attorney; you may be entitled to workers? compensation for your lost wages and medical expenses. A skilled lawyer who understands the laws related to both personal injury and workers' compensation can go over the requirements to help you get the compensation you need to get back on your feet.